A Beginners Guide to Selecting a Video Tripod

When it comes to video one of the most important tools for any camera operator after a camera - whether amateur or professional - is a decent tripod.

 

While it is often the case that cameras generally take all the glory whether be it because of a fantastic zoom, an expensive wide angle lens, or some other feature many great shots would be nothing if it weren't for the help of a sturdy tripod.

 

Often dismissed simply an "accessory" the humble tripod is so much more, and something to which some consideration should be given prior to making a purchase. Here's a few things to consider:



Payload





Autocue Heavy Weight Tripod System

One of the most important factors you will need to consider when selecting a tripod is the payload (i.e. the overall weight the tripod needs to support). It's all well and good having an expensive camera with a big lens and a nice rig but skimp on your tripod and that saving you made won't seem so attractive when it collapses on you mid shoot. Other things to take into consideration are things like prompters since these can also add a considerable amount of weight which combined with a camera will soon add up.

 

As a general rule of thumb a tripod with the capacity to carry a greater payload will generally be more expensive, especially if you're looking at brands such as Sachtler or Vinten, although that's not necessarily always the case. If you need a great solution for studio work out the Autocue Heavy Weight Tripod system.

 



Libec RS-450R

Height

A common misconception is that a tripod should stand at about eye level. While this isn't always a bad thing the extra weight due to the increased height might be and this rule doesn't take into consideration the addition of a tripod head/camera which both increase the height so bear this in mind when making a decision. Some tripods feature an extendable mid column but these are less common on video tripods mainly due to the fact that they tend to increase the centre of gravity when used which in turn leads to a decrease in overall stability. If height is an issue for you then we'd recommend the Libec RS-450R which at 167cm tall is taller than most.

 

 

Weight

 



E-image EG15C2 Two Stage Carbon Fibre Tripod

With added weight comes added stability and if you're using a heavy camera then unfortunately there's often no way around this unless you choose to go the carbon fibre route, which can be expensive. Heavier tripods designed for bigger cameras often tend to feature a heavier price tag and that's before you've even considered checking them in at the airport.

 

If travelling light is important to you then have a look at some of the newest offerings from E-Image.    Here at Planet PC we've been particularly impressed with their tripods and dollies. If great build quality and value for money sound like your cup of tea then head on over to www.planetdv.net to check out the full range. Did we mention they also do some excellent camera bags too?

 

 

 Other things to consider...

 

While the payload, height and weight of a tripod all come in to play in a big way there are a few more things you'll want to consider. Tripods generally feature a spreader for added stability. Depending on where you're using the tripod will depend on the kind you require - for example if you're filming outdoors on an uneven surface then a mid level spreader is your best option. Alternatively if you're working indoors on a flat surface then a floor spreader will serve you best.

 

E-Image GH08 Installed Fluid Tripod Head

Another feature often prevalent on video tripods is a little button sized spirit level. These tend to be less common on standard consumer/DSLR tripods due to the fact that it's often so much easier to fix a still image in post. Unfortunately this isn't the case with video which is why having a spirit level on board can make life a lot easier providing you correctly level your tripod/camera in advance,

 

If you're using a heavier camera we'd also recommend considering a tripod with a decent counter-balance. This will make life a lot easier when controlling the camera and tilting/panning and literally take the weight off you - essential if you're filming for long periods or using any sort of rig.

 

Lastly it's worth giving some thought to whether or not you want a complete tripod kit or a separate system consisting of legs and a head. A separate system is normally more expensive and often preferred simply because of the fact that it allows the user to mix and match legs/head in order to meet specific preferences. Tripod legs often have a tendency to reach the end of their lives before heads which means that while they are initially more expensive they can work out considerably better value for money in the long term.

 

For more information or to view our full range of manufacturers and  equipment visit www.planetdv.net where along with tripods, dollies and monopods you'll find everything else related to professional broadcast.

 

Alternatively if you're looking for something you can't see on our website why not drop us a line at sales@planetdv.net or call our dedicated sales team on 01274 713400.